In an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk, Ilya Ponomarev, leader of the Congress of People’s Deputies and a prominent figure in the Russian opposition, criticised Western allies for their cautious approach towards the conflict in Ukraine. Ponomarev, who served as a member of the Russian State Duma from 2007 to 2016, highlighted his concerns about the lack of decisive action from key nations, singling out the United States and Germany.
Ponomarev expressed disappointment in the United States, stating: “They are so scared up there and not ready to do anything in terms of even giving it a thought about what’s going on, and what would go on in Russia after the war is over.”
He also criticised the US for not engaging in discussions about the potential scenarios for the end of the war.
The Russian opposition leader also raised eyebrows at Germany, accusing the country of financially supporting members of the Russian opposition on the condition that they do not participate in armed resistance.
Ponomarev said: “Basically bribing, on behalf of Putin, our potential allies which could have joined our ranks. That for me is the problem.”
Despite acknowledging that the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs is anti-Putin, Ponomarev argued that they are reluctant to be involved in anything they deem too risky. He then urged the West to be more proactive: “We think that you [the West] are too cautious and too ignorant to be part of the process.”
Ponomarev expressed hope that Great Britain would join the anti-Putin resistance fight, saying: “We hope that one day Great Britain remembers that it is Great Britain and will also join our fight.”
The opposition leader’s remarks come at a crucial time as the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, and Western nations grapple with how to respond effectively.
In a related development, Hungary’s delay in ratifying Sweden’s NATO membership has raised concerns among NATO allies. Despite Hungary’s government expressing support for Sweden’s NATO entry, the approval process faces hurdles within the ruling Fidesz party.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, known for his friendly relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has invited Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson to Budapest for negotiations. However, Kristersson has shown reluctance, stating that there is “no reason” to negotiate with Hungary on the matter.
The delays in Hungary, coupled with controversial statements from Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who downplayed the severity of the conflict in Kyiv, add to the challenges faced by Western nations in presenting a united front against Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
